Orléans West-Innes city councillor Laura Dudas has been busy the last few weeks delivering Gem Awards to some of the shining businesses and organizations in her ward.
Dudas started the award program in 2021 to give residents the chance to nominate their favourite business or organization for making an effort to be an integral part of the community they serve.
“The nominations are not just chosen for excelling at a particular business or service,” explains Dudas’ special assistant Chelsey Wynne. “Those who are nominated, and win, shine because they have made themselves integral to the fabric of our community, through excellent customer service, outreach and a deep love for the community they serve.”
This year’s recipients include Marsh’s YIG for Best Retail Business – Food, Louis Pizza Express as Best Restaurant, and the Ottawa Compassion Centre Food Bank for Best Community Service Organization.
Other recipients include the Zunzun Reading Community/Little Readers Library for Best Arts or Cultural Organization, Almighty Cheese for Best New Business, The Bookkeeping Bureau for Best Professional Service Business, the Rotary Club of Orléans for Best Community Social Organization, Ottawa Easy Wheels for Best Personal Service Business, and the book Market for Best Retail Business – Merchandise.
This is the sixth year of Councillor Dudas’ coveted Gem Awards.
Originally started during the pandemic as a way to recognize local businesses and organizations operating in difficult times, the Gem Awards have grown to recognize local businesses and organizations that truly make the community sparkle.
“Supporting local businesses and service organizations has always mattered to me, as they are at the heart of Orléans,” says Coun. Dudas. “The Gems are an opportunity to celebrate their dedication and the meaning-ful impact they have on people’s lives through excellent customer service. It continues to be my privilege to champion their success.”
The special element of the Gems Awards is that all nominations come directly from the community. Any member of the public can nominate their favourite small business or community organization.
The nominations are not just chosen for excelling at a particular business or service. Those that are nominated, and win, shine because they have made themselves integral to the fabric of the community they serve.
ORLÉANS FARMERS’ MARKET from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the Orléans Town Centre Plaza, 290 Centrum Blvd. Browse 130+ local vendors, grab a bite, and discover amazing handmade and local finds. Plenty of parking available.
CUMBERLAND FARMERS’ MARKET from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the R.J. Kennedy Arena in Cumberland Village with a variety of local farmers and vendors ready to showcase their freshest produce, handmade goods, and unique finds! FREE ADMISSION
MILLENNIUM PARK BBQ hosted by Orléans South-Navan councillor Catherine Kitts and Ottawa Mayor Mark Sutcliffe from 1-3 p.m. with live music and entertainment by children’s performers Monkey Rock Music, a free BBQ, and tons of family fun.
